The Green Secret Realm of the Loba People: Exploring the Mysteries of Nanyi Valley

The "Fairyland" of the Himalayas

1.Deep within the southern slopes of the: Himalayas in Milin County, Nyingchi City, lies a lush, verdant corridor known as Nanyi Valley (Nanyigou). In the Tibetan language, "Nanyi" translates to "Fairyland," a name that perfectly captures the ethereal beauty of this region. Situated at an average altitude of approximately 2,500 meters, Nanyi Valley is often referred to as the "Highest Green Secret Realm on Earth" and the "Oxygen Bar of the Plateau." Unlike the arid landscapes typical of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, this valley is blessed with a humid climate influenced by the warm currents from the Indian Ocean, creating a flourishing ecosystem of dense primitive forests, rushing rivers, and vibrant pastures,.

The Valley of the Medicine King

Nanyi Valley holds a prestigious place in the history of Tibetan medicine, earning the title "Tibetan Medicine King Valley" (Zangdi Yaowang Gu). According to legend, Yuthok Yonten Gonpo, the founding father of traditional Tibetan medicine, once lived in this valley. He collected rare herbs, refined medicines, and taught his disciples here, laying the foundation for the medical system that is still practiced today. The valley is a natural botanical garden, home to a vast array of medicinal plants that grow wild in the damp, fertile soil. Visitors can feel the lingering spirit of this ancient healing tradition as they wander through the rich vegetation that once served as the pharmacy for the "Medicine King",.

Home of the Mysterious Loba People

Culturally, Nanyi Valley is significant as the primary settlement of the Loba (Lhoba) people, one of China's smallest ethnic minorities with a population of only a few thousand. Historically living in isolation in the high mountains and dense forests, the Loba people have preserved a unique and primitive culture. In Qionglin Village (a Loba folk custom village within the scenic area), visitors can catch a glimpse of their traditional way of life. The Loba people are known for their distinct attire, often featuring bear skins and woven bamboo, and their history of hunting and gathering. The valley serves as a living museum where the ancient customs of this forest-dwelling tribe blend with the modern world,.

A Symphony of Ancient Forests and Pastures

2.The landscape of Nanyi: Valley is a stunning tapestry of green. The Nanyi River (Nanyi Qu) winds through the valley, its clear waters flanking banks covered in ancient trees. A defining feature of the forest here is the abundance of Usnea (Songluo), a parasitic plant that hangs from the tall spruce and pine trees like delicate green veils or "air plants." This "green waterfall" creates a mystical, fairytale atmosphere. Further into the valley lies the Tianbian Pasture (Horizon Pasture), a flat, grassy expanse surrounded by snow-capped peaks. In summer, the pasture is dotted with wildflowers and grazing horses, while autumn turns the surrounding forests into a riot of gold and red, offering a visual feast for photographers,.

3.Ecological Wonders: Seabuckthorn and Yin-Yang Trees

The valley is also home to unique ecological phenomena. The Seabuckthorn Island features a grove of ancient seabuckthorn trees, some centuries old, which transform into a golden wonderland in late autumn. Another curiosity is the Yin-Yang Tree, a singular tree where two different species or forms appear to coexist on a single trunk, symbolizing the balance of nature. Whether walking along the wooden boardwalks through the forest or gazing at the majestic Himalayas from the viewing platforms, Nanyi Valley offers an immersive experience into a world where nature remains untouched and culture runs deep,.